How Often Do You Need an EICR?
EICR rules, renewal periods, what a "satisfactory" report looks like, and how to handle C1/C2 remedial codes without losing the tenancy.
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An EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — is the formal inspection that confirms the fixed electrical wiring in a rented property is safe to use. Since 2020 it's been mandatory for almost every private rented property in England.
How often is it required?
- Before a new tenancy begins
- At least every 5 years for an existing tenancy
- More often if the previous report recommends a shorter interval
If a tenancy renews after 5 years, you must already have a new report in place — not pencilled in for "soon".
What "satisfactory" means
An EICR records every observation against four codes:
- C1 — danger present, immediate risk of injury
- C2 — potentially dangerous, remedial work required
- C3 — improvement recommended (not a fail)
- FI — further investigation needed
A report is "satisfactory" only if it contains no C1, C2 or FI codes. C3 observations are advisory and don't fail the report — but it's good practice to plan them in.
What if my report fails?
You have 28 days (or sooner if specified) to carry out remedial work. The electrician must then confirm completion in writing. Send a copy of the original report and the confirmation to your tenant within 28 days of the remedial work.
Who can carry out an EICR?
A qualified and competent electrician — typically NICEIC, NAPIT or ECA registered. Ask for their qualification number and confirm the property type they're insured for (HMOs and commercial-conversion properties need extra experience).
Common pitfalls
- Forgetting the 5-year clock: it runs from the date of the report, not the tenancy start
- Skipping HMO requirements: some councils require annual inspections for licensed HMOs
- Not giving the tenant a copy: legally you must, within 28 days of the report
- DIY testing: a landlord-bought plug-in tester is not an EICR
Bottom line: budget for an EICR at least every five years, act fast on C1/C2 codes, and keep proof you've shared the report.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a landlord need an EICR?+
For privately rented homes in England, an Electrical Installation Condition Report is required at least every 5 years, or sooner if the previous report specifies a shorter interval.
Who can carry out an EICR?+
Only a qualified and competent person should carry out an EICR. In practice this means an electrician registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, or Stroma.
What happens if an EICR comes back unsatisfactory?+
If the report is marked unsatisfactory (codes C1, C2 or FI), landlords must carry out remedial works within 28 days, or sooner if specified, and supply written confirmation to tenants and the local authority.
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